TORONTO, Nov. 19, 2015 /CNW/ - Celebrating the best in children's literature, TD Bank Group and the Canadian Children's Book Centre awarded author Jonathan Auxier the 11th annual TD Canadian Children's Literature Award for his book, The Night Gardener. Auxier received the award and the $30,000 prize - one of the largest in Canadian children's literature - at a gala in Toronto on November 18. Author Marianne Dubuc also received top honours for the best in French-language children's literature in Montreal on November 10 for her book, L'autobus.

"Children's books play a significant role in developing the imaginations, creativity and literacy skills of young Canadians and at TD we believe it's important to recognize the authors and illustrators behind the stories," says Frank McKenna, Deputy Chair, TD Bank Group. "TD is proud to be a leader in promoting children's literacy in Canada and it is our privilege to honour authors like Jonathan Auxier for their exceptional work."

The Night Gardener tells an enchanting and haunting tale that will capture the imaginations of young readers. The story follows orphaned Irish siblings, Molly and Kip, as they arrive to work as servants at a creepy, crumbling English manor. They soon discover that the house and its inhabitants are not what they seem. When confronted by a mysterious stranger and the secrets of the cursed house, their lives are changed forever.

"Inspiring, colourful, thoughtful, unforgettable, the stories told by each of the finalists are wonderfully written and will take young readers on an incredible journey," says Charlotte Teeple, Executive Director, Canadian Children's Book Centre. "Thank you to the authors and illustrators who brought these tales to life and special congratulations to Jonathan Auxier for winning this prestigious award."

TD also awarded $10,000 to be shared among the four finalists for their work, including:

A Brush Full of Colour: The World of Ted Harrison

Any Questions?

Written by Margriet Ruurs and Katherine Gibson

Written by Marie-Louise Gay

Morris Micklewhite and the Tangerine Dress

From Vimy to Victory:

Written by Christine Baldacchino

Canada's Fight to the Finish in World War I

Illustrated by Isabelle Malenfant

Written by Hugh Brewster

From October 1 to 31, young readers from across Canada were invited to vote online for their favourite book from the list of finalists and for a chance to present the CBC-TD Fan Choice Award at the award gala. Author Marie-Louise Gay received the most votes for her book, Any Questions?, and took home the $5,000 prize.

About the TD Canadian Children's Literature Awards Now in its 11th year, the TD Canadian Children's Literature Awards celebrates excellence in children's literature by rewarding the best literary work by Canadian authors. Sponsored by TD, and administered by the Canadian Children's Book Centre in association with the CBC, it is one of the largest prizes in children's book awards. All books, in any genre, written and illustrated by Canadians and published in Canada for children are eligible. Each book is judged on the quality of the text and illustrations, in addition to its overall contribution to Canadian children's literature. Since the program started in 2004, 110 books have been honoured through the TD Canadian Children's Literature Award in both official languages.

About TD's Commitment to Children's Literacy The ability to read is often taken for granted. This skill is paramount to success during school years and beyond, which is why TD believes it's important to get children reading and to foster a lifelong joy of reading. Since 2000, TD has invested more than $35 million to support children's literacy and reading programs at local schools and public libraries across Canada.

About The Canadian Children's Book Centre The Canadian Children's Book Centre is a national, not-for-profit organization founded in 1976. We are dedicated to encouraging, promoting and supporting the reading, writing and illustrating of Canadian books for young readers. Our programs, publications, and resources help teachers, librarians, booksellers and parents select the very best for young readers. For more information, please visit www.bookcentre.ca.